Tattoo Artist Onboarding Checklist

Tattoo Artist Onboarding Process

Are you looking for help setting up a staff orientation process so that when your new Tattoo Artist starts their role, they can learn about their responsibilities and your company as quickly as possible? Whether you’re keen to use buddy onboarding, want to automate your Arts/Entertainment onboarding experience or just need an onboarding checklist for your new Tattoo Artist, you’re in the right place. We’ve put together a sample Tattoo Artist onboarding checklist below and have created onboarding templates & resources to help.

Tattoo Artist Onboarding Checklist

1. Studio Tour: The new tattoo artist should be given a comprehensive tour of the studio, including all the different areas such as the reception, waiting area, tattoo stations, sterilization room, and break room. This task is typically performed by the studio manager or a senior tattoo artist.

2. Introduction to the Team: It is important for the new tattoo artist to meet and get acquainted with the rest of the team. This includes fellow tattoo artists, apprentices, receptionists, and any other staff members. The studio manager or a senior tattoo artist usually facilitates these introductions.

3. Review of Studio Policies: The new tattoo artist should be provided with a detailed review of the studio’s policies and procedures. This includes information on scheduling, client consultations, health and safety protocols, aftercare instructions, and any other relevant guidelines. The studio manager or a senior tattoo artist typically handles this task.

4. Equipment and Supplies Orientation: The new tattoo artist should receive a thorough orientation on all the equipment and supplies used in the studio. This includes tattoo machines, needles, inks, sterilization equipment, and other tools. A senior tattoo artist or the studio manager usually conducts this orientation.

5. Health and Safety Training: It is crucial for the new tattoo artist to undergo comprehensive health and safety training to ensure a safe working environment. This training should cover topics such as bloodborne pathogens, cross-contamination prevention, proper sterilization techniques, and personal protective equipment usage. The studio manager or a designated health and safety officer typically provides this training.

6. Familiarization with Tattoo Styles and Portfolio Review: The new tattoo artist should have the opportunity to familiarize themselves with the different tattoo styles offered by the studio. They should also have their portfolio reviewed by senior tattoo artists to assess their skills and provide constructive feedback. This task is usually performed by senior tattoo artists or the studio manager.

7. Introduction to Client Management Systems: If the studio utilizes client management software or systems, the new tattoo artist should receive training on how to use these systems effectively. This includes scheduling appointments, managing client information, and tracking progress. The studio manager or a designated staff member typically provides this training.

8. Shadowing and Mentoring: The new tattoo artist should have the opportunity to shadow and learn from experienced tattoo artists. This allows them to observe different techniques, gain insights into client interactions, and learn studio-specific practices. Senior tattoo artists or mentors within the studio usually facilitate this task.

9. Introduction to Studio Marketing and Promotion: The new tattoo artist should be familiarized with the studio’s marketing and promotion strategies. This includes understanding the studio’s social media presence, website, and any other advertising initiatives. The studio manager or a designated marketing staff member typically handles this task.

10. Ongoing Professional Development: The new tattoo artist should be encouraged to engage in ongoing professional development to enhance their skills and stay updated with industry trends. This may involve attending workshops, conferences, or participating in online courses. The studio manager or senior tattoo artists can guide the new artist in identifying suitable opportunities for growth.

11. Performance Evaluation and Feedback: Regular performance evaluations and feedback sessions should be conducted to assess the new tattoo artist’s progress and address any areas for improvement. This task is typically performed by the studio manager or senior tattoo artists, who provide constructive feedback and guidance.

12. Team Building Activities: To foster a positive and cohesive team environment, the new tattoo artist should be included in team-building activities. This can include social outings, team lunches, or collaborative projects. The studio manager or a designated staff member usually organizes these activities.

13. Introduction to Studio Policies on Artistic Freedom: The new tattoo artist should be informed about the studio’s policies regarding artistic freedom and client requests. This includes understanding any limitations or restrictions imposed by the studio and how to handle client requests that may conflict with personal artistic style or ethics. The studio manager or senior tattoo artists typically communicate these policies.

14. Introduction to Studio Pricing and Payment Procedures: The new tattoo artist should be familiarized with the studio’s pricing structure and payment procedures. This includes understanding how to provide accurate quotes, handle deposits, and process payments. The studio manager or a designated staff member typically provides this information.

15. Introduction to Studio Maintenance and Cleaning Protocols: The new tattoo artist should be educated on the studio’s maintenance and cleaning protocols to ensure a clean and hygienic working environment. This includes proper disposal of waste, cleaning tattoo stations, and maintaining sterilization equipment. The studio manager or a designated staff member typically provides this training.

16. Introduction to Local Regulations and Licensing: The new tattoo artist should be informed about any local regulations and licensing requirements that apply to their occupation. This includes understanding health department regulations, obtaining necessary permits, and complying with any legal obligations. The studio manager or a designated staff member typically provides this information.

17. Introduction to Studio’s Clientele and Community: The new tattoo artist should be introduced to the studio’s existing clientele and the local community. This can involve attending community events, participating in studio-sponsored activities, or engaging with clients during consultations. The studio manager or senior tattoo artists typically facilitate these introductions.

18. Introduction to Studio’s Artistic Vision and Branding: The new tattoo artist should be familiarized with the studio’s artistic vision and branding. This includes understanding the studio’s unique style, target audience, and overall brand identity. The studio manager or a designated staff member typically communicates this information.

19. Introduction to Studio’s Aftercare and Customer Service Practices: The new tattoo artist should be educated on the studio’s aftercare instructions and customer service practices. This includes understanding how to provide clients with proper aftercare guidance and ensuring a positive customer experience. The studio manager or senior tattoo artists typically provide this training.

20. Introduction to Studio’s Referral and Retention Programs: The new tattoo artist should be informed about any referral or client retention programs implemented by the studio. This includes understanding how to incentivize clients to refer others and how to build long-term relationships with clients. The studio manager or a designated staff member typically communicates this information

Setting Up Your Employee Onboarding Process

From reading through the items in the example Tattoo Artist checklist above, you’ll now have an idea of how you can apply best practices to getting your new Tattoo Artist up to speed and working well in your Arts/Entertainment team. Scroll up to see the link to our onboarding templates & resources or get in touch to discuss getting help setting up your systems and processes in this area.